Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald TD has this afternoon described the government’s failure to progress the Restorative Justice Bill as unacceptable.

The Dublin Central TD said

“A full year has now passed since the Taoiseach apologised on behalf of the state to the women of the Magdalene laundries yet just one sixth of those eligible for the redress scheme have received a payment.

“Pensions, healthcare and other provisions as recommended by the Quirke report and signed off on by government have yet to be delivered on. We still don’t know if health services will be delivered for the small number of women living outside the state

“Government’s failure thus far to deliver on its commitments to the women is causing further hurt and distress.

“Speaking in the Dáil this afternoon the Taoiseach failed to give any comfort to the women as to when the provisions of the Magdalene Commission Report will be implemented.

“Justice Minister Alan Shatter has yet to even introduce the Restorative Justice Bill which is to give effect to the recommendations of the Magdalene Commission Report.

“Government’s delay on delivering the recommendations of the Magdalene Commission Report is simply unforgiveable. These women have been through enough and simply need access to very standard formers of care and support.”